How does Team Gattaca identify which gymnasts to sponsor?
Garcia: It is a first come, first served type of situation. As one of two corporate sponsors over the past seven years, we’ve experienced some interesting political posturing that has significantly impacted our ability to sign top male gymnasts. We’ve had the opportunity to work with some amazing athletes in our short history, but we’ve been unable to work with a select few due to political pressure. It is a reality not unique to USAG or athletics. Politics and the pressure to be with the “in crowd” will always have an influence. Our role in the sport at Team Gattaca is to be available when an athlete or coach does call upon us. Notably, Team Chevron is not going to be around after the 2008 season so we’re curious to see how this influences our sponsorship of athletes at the elite level. SiM: Are the gymnastics sponsorships based strictly on talent or need? Garcia: It is much more based on need than anything else. We’ve been delighted to work with some very talented athletes, but talen
